Following numerous months of intense dialogue and introspection involving various stakeholders within and outside the university, the University of Michigan is proceeding with significant modifications to its programs related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The alterations, detailed in a March 27 email from university leaders to the Ann Arbor and Michigan Medicine communities, encompass the closure of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as well as the Office for Health Equity and Inclusion, alongside the cessation of the DEI 2.0 Strategic Plan. These changes take effect immediately.

In the coming months, the university plans to reallocate resources to enhance funding in programs that directly benefit students, such as financial assistance, mental health resources, pre-professional guidance, and other initiatives that strengthen community ties, foster a sense of belonging, and broaden accessibility.

“These choices have been made thoughtfully. We acknowledge the significance of these transformations and the challenges they pose for many, particularly those whose lives and professions have found enrichment through programs that are now transitioning,” the message stated, signed by President Santa J. Ono; Laurie K. McCauley, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs; Marschall S. Runge, executive vice president for medical affairs; and Geoffrey S. Chatas, executive vice president and chief financial officer.

“We are profoundly appreciative of the substantial contributions made by leaders, faculty, and staff in advancing our continual endeavors to create an increasingly inclusive and respectful community.”

The message acknowledged significant advancements since the inception of the DEI strategic plan in 2016. For instance, first-generation undergraduate enrollment has surged by 46%, and there has been a rise of over 32% in undergraduate Pell grant recipients, partly due to the success of initiatives like the Go Blue Guarantee and Wolverine Pathways.

“Throughout our strategic initiatives, we have heard strong pride in the university’s backing of student-centric programs,” the message continued. “We have also noted concerns regarding the equilibrium of resources between administration and direct student support. Some voices within our campus community have expressed disappointment at not feeling included in DEI programs and that these initiatives did not sufficiently cultivate connections among diverse groups.”

As part of ongoing evaluations, McCauley formed a specialized committee last year, co-sponsored by the vice president for government relations and chief diversity officer, which comprised deans, faculty, and staff to assess the structural components of U-M’s DEI initiatives.

Following discussions among leadership and the board, the executive vice presidents proposed a plan to the Board of Regents, which led to further discussions coinciding with the early months of the new presidential administration when executive orders and federal guidelines—including several broadly criticizing DEI initiatives—began to reshape the landscape of higher education. University leaders consulted national associations, policy advisers, and others to navigate the ramifications of the federal directives, which have become more pronounced.

The message also announced further actions, including the following:

• All departments will assess their online presence to align with the current programmatic directions and to ensure compliance with federal executive orders and guidance.
• The previously established decision to eliminate diversity statements in faculty recruitment, which was enacted earlier this academic year, will be applied across the university; statements regarding an individual’s commitment to DEI will no longer be requested or considered in admissions, hiring, promotions, awards, annual evaluations, or other assessments for faculty and staff.
• Individual leaders who have been backing DEI endeavors in schools, colleges, and units will redirect their efforts exclusively toward their primary responsibilities.
• The Office of the General Counsel will commence a swift review to ensure all policies, programs, and practices are in accordance with federal laws and guidance.

“We are dedicated to cultivating an environment that values and supports every member of our community while honoring diverse backgrounds, viewpoints, and experiences,” the leaders’ message expressed. “In the months to come, the university will bolster investments in student-facing programs.”

The forthcoming investments include:

• Broader financial aid: As previously announced, the Go Blue Guarantee has been expanded to assist all families with incomes of $125,000 or less. Additional strategies to further reduce the cost of attendance will be sought.
• Improved mental health services: Mental health resources will be enhanced to provide better support for all students.
• Expanding the Blavin Scholars Program: Due to its extraordinary impact, a new plan will be devised to broaden this program’s reach to serve even more students.
• Enhancing academic success: U-M will investigate methods to improve student outcomes through enhanced advising, counseling, and pre-professional guidance, while continuing to invest in innovative solutions like 24/7 AI tutoring and a personal AI assistant for every community member.
• Promoting community and belonging: U-M will seek opportunities to broaden student life programs that foster community, nurture a sense of belonging, and increase accessibility.
• Maintaining essential student spaces: The university remains committed to upholding crucial student spaces, including the Trotter Multicultural Center, the Spectrum Center, and various multicultural areas within residence halls, all accessible to all students.
• Supporting cultural and ethnic programs: Cultural and ethnic events that enrich our campus and promote a lively, inclusive atmosphere will continue to receive support.

“These initiatives highlight our commitment to prioritizing student-centered programs and ensuring resources are allocated where they will yield the most significant impact,” the message emphasized. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to academic freedom, freedom of speech, and freedom of expression, as well as uplifting the unique, ineffable potential of every individual in our community.”

Composed by Jeff Bleiler